Snow Day!
Thanks to all who helped neighbours while we experienced our biggest snowstorm this year.
As City crews continue to dig us out of the recent snowstorm (be sure to sign up for City alerts HERE if you have not already), here are the highlights from this week at Committee and Council:
Audit Committee
The Audit Committee recently reviewed the Office of the Auditor General’s (OAG) investigation into the training program for operators of O-Train Lines 2 and 4. This investigation was prompted by reports made to the City’s Fraud and Waste Hotline and focused on the delivery of training for operators, controllers, and instructors. Importantly, the investigation assessed the administration and execution of the training rather than the instructional content itself.
The OAG identified inconsistencies in the qualifications of diesel rail instructors and noted some gaps in training records. To address these concerns, the OAG recommended improved documentation of instructor, operator, and controller qualifications, as well as enhanced monitoring of instructor performance. City staff have accepted all five of the OAG’s recommendations and are actively working to refine hiring practices, training protocols, and oversight mechanisms. OC Transpo management has confirmed that all issues flagged in the investigation were resolved before service on Lines 2 and 4 commenced on January 6.
While these improvements are necessary, it is important to note that OC Transpo’s rail operations have multiple independent safety layers beyond the training program. These safeguards include on-board safety systems, oversight from the Transit Operations Control Centre, and strict adherence to operating rules and regulations. At no point was the safety of Lines 2 and 4 compromised.
This Week at Council
Recent Council developments included the passage of a motion brought forward by Councillor Jeff Leiper that instructed staff to amend the zoning bylaw immediately to allow shelters in all urban zones, rather than waiting for the full update of the New Zoning Bylaw. While affordable housing remains the long-term solution to homelessness, this amendment would be coming with the Zoning Bylaw Update in the future, doing is now ensures the city can secure potential 2025 funding for emergency and transitional housing if necessary.
Commemorating Lives Lost to Covid 19
I introduced a notice of motion at Council to commemorate the victims of COVID-19 on the fifth anniversary of the World Health Organization’s declaration of the global pandemic. This initiative seeks to formally recognize the impact of COVID-19 on our community and to honor those we have lost.
At Transit Committee
On the transit front, I followed up at the Transit Committee meeting regarding Route 11, which was specifically identified in presentations as requiring service improvements. I heard loud and clear from residents the concern for reliability on this route. We must continue to ensure effective and reliable transit service remains a priority for the City. Route 11 is an important route for many to get their daily activities done. I will report back once I hear back from OC Transpo on their strategies to improve this well used route.
For more City of Ottawa updates, please visit the City of Ottawa Newsroom.
For a complete agenda and updates, please sign up for email alerts, visit ottawa.ca/agendas or call 3-1-1. For more information about how to watch or participate in individual meetings, please consult the specific meeting’s agenda at ottawa.ca/agendas.
